The Broncos downed the Knights 36-12 in the Hunter but Newcastle was dudded by two Bunker controversies, with Andrew Johns even labelling the second “laughable”.
Knights centre Dane Gagai was denied a try in the 35th minute, when the former Rabbitoh crossed on the right edge but was deemed to have knocked the ball on.
There was clearly separation between Gagai’s right hand and the ball, but many believed he regained control of the footy as he planted it.
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The second Bunker drama resulted in the Broncos being awarded a try in the 70th minute despite the fact Knights halfback Adam Clune had clearly been obstructed.
Brisbane fullback Te Maire Martin ran behind teammate Jordan Riki before passing the ball and the play ended in winger Selwyn Cobbo scoring a try, which the Bunker upheld.
“A lot of times when they do catch on the inside, it doesn’t impede,” Brad Fittler said on Nine’s coverage.
“This time you can clearly see Clune has Riki right in front of him, so he couldn’t see what Te Maire Martin was doing with the ball.
“That is a bad call. A bad call.”
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The disallowed Gagai try wasn’t as polarising as the second incident.
Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen had opposing views when pressed during Nine’s half-time coverage.
“I actually thought that he grounded the football,” Smith said.
“I’m suggesting that he does lose the football… but as he grounds the ball it’s in contact with his hand.
“I actually thought it was a try.”
Gallen disagreed.
“I’m happy for it to be no try,” Gallen said.
“I think it definitely comes out of his hand. He did slam the ball down, but I think you’ve got to regain some sort of control of it.
“So I’m happy for it to be no try.”
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